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Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs: A Beacon of Liberal Thought and Artistic Heritage

Discover a historic Tarpon Springs church, a sanctuary of liberal thought and artistic heritage, home to inspiring George Inness Jr. paintings and a welcoming, inclusive community.

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The Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs, the oldest church in the city, stands as a testament to liberal religious thought and artistic expression. Founded in 1885, the current building, dating back to 1908, has recently been restored after a six-year project. The church is known for its welcoming atmosphere, promoting spiritual growth, social justice, and the arts. It houses a collection of paintings by George Inness Jr., including works that once graced the Louvre in Paris. The church actively engages with the community, hosting various social groups and events, and is a significant landmark in the historic district of Tarpon Springs, attracting visitors with its rich history and commitment to inclusivity.

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Local tips

  • Attend a Sunday service to experience the welcoming atmosphere and hear inspiring messages.
  • Take time to admire the George Inness Jr. paintings, a unique collection of spiritual artwork.
  • Check the church's calendar for upcoming events, including concerts, lectures, and social gatherings.
  • Explore the historic Safford House Museum nearby to learn more about the founders of the church and the early history of Tarpon Springs.
  • Consider visiting during a special event, such as a Veterans Day service or an art exhibition, to fully appreciate the church's cultural contributions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, a popular tourist destination, the church is approximately a 20-minute walk. Head east on Dodecanese Boulevard towards Pinellas Avenue, then turn left onto Pinellas Avenue. Continue north on Pinellas Avenue until you reach Tarpon Avenue, then turn right. Walk east on Tarpon Avenue, then turn left onto Grand Boulevard. The church will be on your left at the corner of Grand Boulevard and Read Street. This route offers a pleasant stroll through the heart of Tarpon Springs.

  • Public Transport

    The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) operates bus routes that serve Tarpon Springs. Several bus stops are located within walking distance of the church. Check the PSTA website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. From the Sponge Docks, take the PSTA Route 19. Get off at the stop closest to the intersection of Tarpon Avenue and Pinellas Avenue, then walk east on Tarpon Avenue and turn left onto Grand Boulevard. The church will be on your left. A single ride fare on PSTA is $2.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tarpon Springs. A ride from the Sponge Docks to the church typically takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $8-$12 for a one-way trip. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving, from the Sponge Docks, head east on Dodecanese Boulevard, then turn left onto Pinellas Avenue. Continue north on Pinellas Avenue until you reach Tarpon Avenue, then turn right. Drive east on Tarpon Avenue, then turn left onto Grand Boulevard. The church will be on your left at the corner of Grand Boulevard and Read Street. The church has a parking lot at 57 Read Street, behind the yellow house. Additional parking is available on the street and at the Safford House Museum located on 23 Parkin Ct. Street parking is typically free, but be mindful of any posted restrictions.

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The Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs, located at the corner of Grand Boulevard and Read Street, is more than just a place of worship; it's a historical landmark and a vibrant center for community engagement. Established in 1885, it holds the distinction of being the oldest church in Tarpon Springs, embodying a legacy of liberal religious thought and a deep appreciation for the arts. The church's story began with a small group of Universalists who gathered to form a congregation. Anson P.K. Safford, a former Arizona governor and a key figure in the early development of Tarpon Springs, donated the land for their first wooden church. The congregation attracted vacationers from the North, and the church became a hub for creative individuals. The renowned landscape artist George Inness, along with his son George Inness Jr., became involved with the Universalists, further cementing the church's connection to the art world. Tarpon Springs blossomed into one of Florida's first art colonies, thanks in part to the Inness family's influence. In the early 1900s, a fire tragically destroyed the original church building. However, the congregation's spirit remained unbroken, and in 1908, they constructed the present structure at the corner of Grand Boulevard and Read Street. This new building, designed in the Romanesque Revival style, became a symbol of resilience and a testament to the community's unwavering faith. In 1918, a tropical storm swept through Tarpon Springs, shattering several windows in the sanctuary. This event led to a remarkable chapter in the church's history. George Inness Jr., a member of the congregation and a celebrated artist, offered to replace the damaged windows with a triptych of paintings. This act of artistic philanthropy marked the beginning of a unique collection of Inness Jr.'s works within the church. Over the years, Inness Jr. continued to contribute to the church's artistic legacy, creating five more paintings for the sanctuary and bequeathing three masterworks to the church after his death. These contributions established Tarpon Springs as a city for the arts, a reputation it proudly maintains today. For over a century, the sanctuary housed these paintings, becoming a darkened space where the spiritual light within Inness Jr.'s art was quietly preserved. In 1961, the church officially became the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs, embracing a broader theological perspective while continuing its commitment to community service and artistic expression. The church's mission statement reflects its core values: "We are a liberal community for all ages promoting spiritual growth, social justice and the arts." In 2013, the church faced a new challenge when sinkhole damage forced its closure. What began as a sinkhole repair project soon evolved into a comprehensive restoration effort, addressing drainage issues and termite problems. The restoration took six years to complete, during which the congregation met in various locations throughout the city. The restored church reopened in September 2019, a century and a day after the storm that initially led to the installation of Inness Jr.'s paintings. The renovated sanctuary features natural wood floors, arched windows, and the carefully restored collection of Inness Jr.'s paintings. The reinstallation of windows, which had been covered for over 100 years, brought natural light back into the space, enhancing the beauty of the artwork and creating a peaceful atmosphere. The Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs is not only a place of worship but also a cultural center that hosts a variety of events and activities. These include Sunday services, meditation groups, social action initiatives, and artistic programs. The church actively engages with the community through outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations. The church's commitment to social justice is evident in its various initiatives, including community outreach programs and advocacy for equality and human rights. The congregation actively participates in addressing local and global issues, striving to create a more just and compassionate world. The Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs stands as a testament to the power of community, the enduring appeal of art, and the unwavering pursuit of spiritual growth and social justice. Visitors are welcome to explore its rich history, admire its artistic treasures, and experience the warmth of its inclusive community. Whether you are seeking spiritual guidance, artistic inspiration, or a welcoming community, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs offers a unique and enriching experience.

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